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Greetings, gardening enthusiasts! Welcome to the first installment of our year-long series on gardening tips and tricks. I’m Karl Wiegandt, owner of The Berry Farm and a seasoned South Florida farmer. Today, we’re diving into the essentials of South Florida’s grow season and how to prepare your land for a bountiful harvest.
Understanding South Florida’s Grow Season
First things first, let’s talk about our unique growing season. Unlike other regions, South Florida’s tropical climate allows us to enjoy two main growing periods. Our fall/winter season starts in late September and runs through April, perfect for growing cool season crops like strawberries, tomatoes, peppers, onions, and leafy greens. Then, we have the summer season from May to August, where heat-loving plants like okra, sweet potatoes, and tropical fruits thrive.
Timing is everything
Planting at the right time is crucial. For instance, if you plant tomatoes too early in the summer, they’ll struggle with the intense heat. Likewise, winter crops planted too late might not mature before temperatures rise again. A handy tip: mark your calendar with planting dates to keep track of your gardening schedule.
Preparing your land
Now that you know the best times to plant, let’s get your soil ready. Good land preparation is the foundation of a successful garden.
1. Choosing the Right Spot — Elevation is key. Select the highest land available for your garden to ensure proper drainage and avoid waterlogging. Look for a spot that gets plenty of sunlight — at least 6-8 hours a day — and has easy access to water.
2. Adding Organic Matter — Organic matter is your soil’s best friend. It improves soil structure, water retention, and nutrient availability. Start by adding compost to your soil. If you’ve been following our columns, you might already have a compost pile ready. Spread a 2- to 3-inch layer of compost over your garden area and work it into the top 6 to 8 inches of soil.
3. Bed Preparation — Raised beds are highly recommended for South Florida gardens. They provide better drainage, reduce soil compaction, and make it easier to control soil quality.
To build a raised bed, construct a frame using untreated wood, bricks, or other materials, and fill it with a mix of native soil, compost, and organic matter.
4. Irrigation — Consistent watering is key, especially during the dry season. However, avoid daily watering. Instead, water your garden deeply two times a week to encourage deep root growth. Drip irrigation systems are efficient and deliver water directly to the roots, reducing evaporation. If you prefer hand-watering, do it early in the morning to minimize water loss and fungal issues.
Crop rotation and companion planting
To maintain soil health and reduce pest problems, practice crop rotation and companion planting. Rotate your crops so that the same family of plants isn’t grown in the same spot year after year. For example, follow tomatoes with beans, which fix nitrogen in the soil.
Companion planting involves growing certain plants together that benefit each other.
Marigolds, for instance, deter pests and can be planted alongside tomatoes and peppers.
Basil improves the flavor of tomatoes and repels insects, making it a perfect garden buddy.
A wonderful family activity
Gardening is a fantastic way to spend time with family. It teaches kids about nature, responsibility, and the joy of growing their own food. Plus, there’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of harvesting fresh produce from your own garden.
Final thoughts
Starting a garden in South Florida might seem daunting, but with the right knowledge and preparation, you’ll be on your way to growing delicious, healthy crops in no time.
Remember, gardening is as much about patience and observation as it is about hard work. Pay attention to your plants, learn from your experiences, and don’t be afraid to experiment.
Join us in a future column when we delve into the world of container gardening — perfect for those with limited space but big gardening dreams. Until then, happy planting!
Happy growing and grilling.
Karl “KO” Wiegandt, a third-generation farmer, proudly upholds his family’s agricultural legacy at The Berry Farm in The Redland. A Westminster Christian School alumnus, Karl was a key player for the 1996 national champion Westminster baseball team. He later joined the University of Florida, where he continued to develop his skills and passion for the sport. Combining his deep-rooted passion for farming with his athletic discipline, Karl continues to nurture and expand The Berry Farm, offering visitors an authentic and enriching agritourism experience.
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